Fuming Mamata calls hike a burden, violation of coalition dharma

Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today slammed the Centre for unilaterally hiking prices by a massive Rs 6.28 a litre, calling it a burden on the common man and a violation of the coalition protocol.

"It is all financial mismanagement. We don't know what the economic situation is. They don't discuss with us," a visibly upset Banerjee told reporters in Kolkata.

Angry Didi. Image courtesy PIB

"We are not supporting the cause of the price hike. There was no discussion before such a big hike. When in alliance, parties should talk," she said.

However, the Trinamool boss made it clear that she is not going to pull the government down.

"We would not withdraw support because this would be another economic burden on the country. Only for economic and political stability we will support the government. But support does not mean we won't protest," Banerjee said.

Banerjee, however, also sounded a warning to the Congress.

"The Congress is not in majority at the Centre but Trinamool is in majority in West Bengal," she said.

"Why was it (the imminent petrol price hike) not said yesterday when Parliament was in session?" the Bengal chief minister said questioning the timing of the hike.

"We are sorry. I am sad. But still I appeal to the Centre to work for the betterment of the economic situation," she said.